What is fluoride and why do I need it?
Fluoride is a natural mineral found within the earth. Fluoride is also present in some foods that we eat, such as fish, and also present in our water supply. Fluoride has many benefits for your teeth, but studies have long shown the use of fluoride as an effective agent in reducing tooth decay. Fluoride prevents decay in both teeth that are currently formed as well as in teeth that are still forming in children’s mouths. When teeth start to break down, due to acid demineralization, fluoride can help strengthen the teeth and prevent loss of enamel.
Not only does fluoride help prevent decay, it will also:
Kill bacteria within plaque and slow the colonization of pathogens
Reduces the volume of plaque
Decreases sensitivity
Who benefits from fluoride the most?
- Chemotherapy and radiotherapy patients
- Taking multiple medications
- Have crowns
- Have old fillings
- High sugar diet
- High sugar diet
- Tooth sensitivity
- Removable appliances
- Dry mouth
- Receding gums
- Orthodontics
The Only and BEST prevention for root cavities is fluoride, and the best and most reliable fluoride delivery is immediately after your cleaning. This is due to the natural biofilm layer that lies over the teeth, which your body will re-coat within 24 hours after your cleaning. The best time for fluoride is at the end of your cleaning since fluoride does not penetrate the biofilm layer well.